Alocasia African Mask Help

I purchased an Alocasia African Mask Plant a couple of months ago, and had a problem with the leaves turning yellow an then falling off. Eventually, it was taken over by spider mites and I threw it out. I just bought a new one last Saturday, and it looked healthy and great, and now the bottom small new leaves are turning yellow, can someone tell me what I am doing wrong. Last time I thought it was the plant food, but I have not added anything to this one except water. The first plant I bought from a nursery where they told me it needed bright light, this new one I told me it doesn't require bright light. Please help.

This is the top of the plant.

The oldest leaves always yellow, but new ones should replace them (each new leaf getting larger than the last). Mine have been in very bright light (not quite direct sun, but 50% shade cloth has not hurt them at all- seem to enjoy it)... my only problem is cold (winter kills them here)... so not sure how they fare indoors as I haven't tried them there yet.

I was having the same issue, I also put them in a bright place. They are right on the border of sunshine. I mixed some osmocote in, which they really responded to. Have you re-potted them? or are they in the ground now?
Rj

Not sure if it makes a difference but I water them with rain water, not tap.

That is a awesome plant wonderful...

Bright, indirect light and dry soil will keep these happy.

I have 3 "African Mask" and keep them in very well-draining soil and water maybe once every two weeks at the most. Yes, they do like bright light, but indirect bright light. One of mine had such beautiful leaves on it last year until I overwatered it and put it in a dim window. The leaves rotted off. So sad. Poor thing dropped all of its leaves and went dormant for about 4 months.

As far as the spider mites go, these guys are like spider mite magnets. I have 6 kinds of Alocasias and they all are very susceptible to fungal diseases and insects. I have killed a few by overwatering and it's easy to do. I feed with a balanced fert at half strength and will feed after I water, unless they've gone dormant. If that's the case, no water until they start to show signs of life. I also have them in a location where there's air circulation be it outside or near a fan.

when mine get the slightiest hint of yellow I chop it off. you might be watering too much. down here if they get to much sun they turn white.... and get a faded look like paper... Imcanadian is right about the water. I can water AM with well water down here but that doesn't mean you can. if you don't have rain water leave your water out for 24hrs....or use pond water... stick your finger down in the soil to see if it is dry don't go by the top of the soil....

ely

Thanks all for the info you have provided me. RJ - I haven't repotted yet. The girl at the nursery said you should wait at least a month before repotting?

Ely-I only watered once, but maybe it was still wet from the nursery? How often do you suggest watering?